Mecca mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus

Dozens of mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile Virus over the last two weeks, prompting the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District to work toeradicate the insect from Mecca.

So far this year 37 out of more than 500 mosquitoes have tested positive for the virus. This time last year only eight mosquitoes had tested positive, according to the district.

The mosquitoes tested came from traps set along Lincoln Street between 63rd Avenue and 5th Street.

“We urge residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves in the early morning and evening hours, to prevent bites that could infect them with a serious illness,” spokeswoman Jill Oviatt said in a written statement.

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District dropped off fliers, mosquito repellent, fly swatters and educational materials around Mecca, including a local health center and mobile home park.

READ MORE: Mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile Virus found in two east valley cities

The agency plans to eradicate mosquitoes from Saturday to Wednesday between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. by using truck sprayers.

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A crew with the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District sprays for an invasive mosquito in a Cathedral City neighborhood early Thursday morning, September 22, 2016. (Photo: Jay Calderon/The Desert Sun)

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Most individuals infected with West Nile Virus will not experience any illness. Others have flu-like symptoms, like fever and a headache. In severe cases people will need to be hospitalized and people have died from West Nile Virus.

The district encourages anyone with symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Reporter Gustavo Solis can be reached at 760 778 6443 or by email at gustavo.solis@desertsun.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @journogoose.